Hackensack University Medical Center’s ALS Center Achieves National Recognition as an ALS Association Certified Treatment Center of Excellence™
The ALS Center at Hackensack University Medical Center has been awarded the prestigious designation of an ALS Association Certified Treatment Center of Excellence™, marking a major milestone for the care of individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the region. The certification recognizes the program's commitment to providing outstanding, multidisciplinary care and its dedication to advancing research in the fight against this devastating disease.
ALS, often called Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to a loss of muscle control. The disease’s progression can vary, but it relentlessly impacts a person's ability to move, speak, eat, and eventually breathe. While there is no cure for ALS, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treatment has been shown to improve patients' quality of life and can extend survival.
The ALS Association’s certification affirms that the ALS Center at Hackensack University Medical Center meets the highest national standards of care. This model brings together a dedicated team of specialists, including neurologists, palliative care experts, nurses, therapists, and researchers, to provide a seamless and patient-centered experience. This integrated approach ensures that patients and their families receive comprehensive support to navigate the complex challenges of living with ALS.
The need for such specialized centers is more critical than ever. The number of people living with ALS in the U.S. is projected to grow from roughly 33,000 to over 36,000 by 2030, driven in part by an aging population.The disease can impact cognition, and research is increasingly focused on the role of genetic factors and environmental links, such as exposure to pollutants.
This new certification makes the ALS Center at Hackensack University Medical Center the 2nd one in the Hackensack Meridian Health Network, the other being at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
As a Certified Treatment Center of Excellence, the ALS Center at Hackensack University Medical Center is positioned at the forefront of these developments. The center integrates the latest scientific insights into patient care and actively participates in the research that brings us closer to a cure. This designation offers a beacon of hope, ensuring that individuals and families affected by ALS have access to a comprehensive team of experts dedicated to improving their quality of life today while advancing the science for a better tomorrow.